(2 points)
INTENT
Reduce exposure to pathogens, allergens and hazardous cleaning chemicals.
SUMMARY
ISSUE
Commercial cleaning products may contain ingredients suspected to be hazardous to human health and the environment. For example, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, alkylphenol ethoxylate, a common surfactant used in various cleaning products is associated with endocrine disruption in lab studies. Cleaning product ingredients can also contain vapors or gasses that irritate the nose, eyes, throat and lungs and can cause or trigger asthma attacks. Frequent use of household cleaning sprays is suspected to be a risk factor for adult asthma. A study of 329 custodians found dermal as well as upper and lower respiratory symptoms associated with increased commercial cleaning product use and exposure. Some ingredients can also be corrosive, causing burns to the eyes or skin during handling.
Triclosan, one of the most well-studied biocides used in consumer hand hygiene products, is associated with cross-resistance to antibiotics in some laboratory studies. Although further studies are needed to determine efficacy and risks associated with biocides in consumer products, current findings have raised valid concerns on the use of biocides in consumer-facing products.
SOLUTIONS
IMPACT
Cleaning products can contain hazardous ingredients which compromise indoor air quality. Using products with ingredients that have been assessed for the most critical human health endpoints helps to improve indoor air quality and supports market demand for safer ingredients and improved product formulation.
REQUIREMENTS
Ensure Acceptable Cleaning Ingredients (1 point)
Verified by Operations Schedule
Choose between the following:
ADDITIONAL POINT OPPORTUNITY
To earn an additional point for WELL Core and MFR Certification, projects should also provide service in all leased spaces.
Implement Acceptable Cleaning Practices (1 point)
Verified by Operations Schedule
Projects have an annual training program in place for facilities staff or providers that addresses the following requirements:
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Sequence of cleaning steps and use of personal protective equipment.
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Use of cleaning products and materials and related equipment (e.g., cleaning chemical dispensing equipment).
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Selection of low hazard cleaning materials.
Projects implement a cleaning schedule that addresses the following:
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Extent and frequency of cleaning, including dated cleaning logs.
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Protocol for disinfection, including:
- Identification and maintenance of a list of high-touch surfaces.
- Limitation of disinfection to high-touch surfaces.
Cleaning product storage meets the following requirements:
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Bleach and ammonia-based cleaning products are kept in separate bins.
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Any bins and bottles of bleach and ammonia-based cleaning products are affixed with large, color-coded labels indicating they are not to be mixed.
ADDITIONAL POINT OPPORTUNITY
To earn an additional point for WELL Core and MFR Certification, projects should also provide service in all leased spaces.
© International WELL Building Institute
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